When I grow up, I want to be a Astronaut (Gattaca (DVD))

Member Name: SmilingBuddha

Product:	Gattaca (DVD)
Date:	04/07/09 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Tackles interesting themes, Great moments

Disadvantages: Poor ending

As I became a fan of Andrew Niccol's work after watching The Trueman Show, I was really looking forward to watching this and I wasn't disappointed.

Set in a "not too distant future" where parents can genetically configure their children down to the last detail prior to birth which has resulted in DNA being the determining feature of a persons social class. The film stars Ethan Hawke as Vincent Freeman, a troubled member of the social underclass struggling against discrimination in his dream to become an astronaut.

As the main character, through his narration we learn of his troubled past and how he instilled in himself his sense of self-worth. His character is very well executed and appeals to the underdog in all of us.

Jude Law played Jerome Morrow, who I found to be the most interesting character. Paralyzed from the waist down, he is a former swimming star with a genetic profile. Equipped with a snobbish drawl, his performance is solid throughout and I found him a fascinating character.

Uma Thurman is also in there as Vincent's lover. Her performance could have used some more emotion as she can across rather bland. I felt no connection to her whatsoever but luckily her role was not too significant.

There is very little action in this film. A quick punch in the nose is as close as it gets. So those expecting a sort of Minority Report with lots of fighting while flying around on jetpacks will be sorely disappointed.

This is an intelligent film and the meat of the film is entirely psychological. The plot carries the fugitive atmosphere throughout, playing into the fear of getting caught - and it does so superbly. I found myself willing Vincent along in his pursuit, as I genuinely cared if he made it or not.

Despite the high quality of the plot, I found the ending was a bit of a quick cut off. They certainly could have done more there.

The fascinating world Niccol creates is very well engineered and feels intricate and believable. That said, some details were only touched upon briefly where they should have gone into more detail. The dialogue is well written, not exceptional but I found some of it particularly witty.

In summary, this is a strong tale of determination, discrimination and if I might quote the Honda adverts, the power of dreams.

Summary: A well directed movie which tackles difficult themes.